511 service
Keeping up to date on ferry service, road conditions.
The Nova Scotia 511 line provides a variety of information for the general public.
The following are some frequently asked questions about the service:
Q
. What is 511 Nova Scotia? A. 511 Nova Scotia is a free traveller information service operated by the Nova Scotia government, which may be accessed via phone, mobile device or computer. The information covers highway conditions, roadwork, major incidents, weather alerts, availability of ferry services and park information. Users within Nova Scotia may access the information via phone toll free by simply calling 5-1-1, similar to calling 9-1-1 for emergencies or 4-1-1 for directory assistance.
Q
. Is this service accessible in every region of Nova Scotia?
A. Yes. Call 511 for free, instant access or go online at 511. gov.ns.ca.
Q
. What kind of information does 511 Nova Scotia provide?
A. 511 Nova Scotia is an official source of transportation information necessary to plan safe trips across Nova Scotia. It is also the place to report weather conditions or an incident on Nova Scotia’s major highways.
Q
. How can 511 be accessed by travellers in another province or U.S. state? A. Dial toll-free 1-888-7804440 from outside Nova Scotia to hear the same information as if you are dialling 511 from within Nova Scotia.
Q
. Can an individual with a breakdown or an emergency on the highway, call 511 Nova Scotia for assistance?
A. No, call 911 for any emergency.
Q
. Where does the information provided on 511 Nova Scotia come from?
A. Aware of potential disruptions on its road network, the Nova Scotia government has adopted information transmission procedures and dissemination tools to reach users, road professionals and its various partners. Highway maintenance crews and others across the province regularly update the information provided through 511 Nova Scotia
Q
. How often is the information updated on 511 Nova Scotia?
A. Information concerning major events in progress on the road network and resulting in significant disruptions is updated every time new developments occur or as soon as the event ends.
Information on winter road conditions is updated three times daily or whenever significant changes occur. The information provided reflects the current conditions on a given segment.
Information on roadwork is updated as major construction phases begin and when the work is over. Once the information is captured in the information processing systems, it is made available on 511 Nova Scotia within five minutes.
Q
. How much will it cost to call 511 Nova Scotia? A. If you are in Nova Scotia, use of the 511 Nova Scotia service is free.
Q
. Is it permissible to consult 511 Nova Scotia while driving?
A. Yes, so long as you are using a hands-free telephone device and the voice-activated 511 function.
The use of hand-held devices with a telephone function, such as cellphones or smart phones is prohibited when driving. Distracted driving legislation is in effect in Nova Scotia.